There is a public health crisis that affects millions across the world.

This epidemic doesn’t discriminate and you, yes you, might be another silent sufferer. There is a widespread sleep shortage. Between our dependence on screens, trying to have it all, and navigating the stresses of everyday life, most of us are getting less than the right amount of quality sleep. While the exact number of hours of sleep needed varies for each person, it’s said that we should be getting at the very least seven hours. This has implications for our mental and physical health.

But just how does this affect our sex lives? Well, the two are very linked. Ever noticed that after a good sesh of getting it on, you fall asleep really quickly? No offence to our partners; it has nothing to do with underperformance. Far from it. Great sex releases endorphins and the “love hormone” oxytocin, which work to ease anxiety and cause relaxation. Together, they put you to sleep in an instant.

Sleep deprivation causes physical and cognitive tiredness. When you’re knackered, the brain suppresses the production of sex hormones and pumps out cortisol, a stress hormone. With all of that flooding your system, it’s easy to see why a continued lack of sleep can lead to a decreased sex drive and, more worryingly, infertility.

To ensure your sex life is not mucked up by your sleep routine, try these tips:

1. Get seven to nine hours of quality sleep.
2. Limit your caffeine intake after 3 o’clock at the very latest (it stays in your system for around six hours!).
3. Turn your electrical devices off an hour or two before bed.

If that last one isn’t possible, look into getting an app on your devices that block blue light, something that messes with your circadian rhythm and prevents sleep. Also, if you or your partner are on your phone into the early hours, you’re not going to be in the mood for sex anyway.

So, put your phone in a drawer and whip out a HANX instead.